North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is raising awareness about lead exposure and ways North Dakotans can protect children from lead poisoning during National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, Oct. 25-31.
Lead exposure is preventable, but it can occur in places families may not expect. Young children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure, which can affect learning, behavior and development. Children younger than 6 are at greatest risk because they are growing rapidly and frequently put their hands and other objects in their mouths.
“Understanding where lead may be found and taking steps to prevent exposure can help protect children and support healthy development,” said Madison Novosel, Lead Program coordinator. “Parents and caregivers should talk with their child’s healthcare provider about lead testing, particularly if they have concerns about potential exposure.”
Know the sources of lead
Homes built before 1978, when the use of lead-based paint in residential properties was banned, may contain lead-based paint. Peeling or damaged paint and dust from deteriorating lead-based paint can expose children to lead.
Other potential sources of lead include contaminated soil, drinking water from lead pipes or plumbing fixtures, some imported foods and spices, and certain toys and other products. People may also unknowingly bring lead into their homes through jobs or hobbies that involve lead-containing materials.
Families living in older homes should consider having their home tested for lead, particularly before beginning renovations or repairs that could disturb lead-based paint.
Get children tested
The only way to know if a child has been exposed to lead is through a blood lead test. Parents and caregivers should talk with their child’s healthcare provider about whether their child should be tested.
North Dakota Medicaid covers lead screening for children at 12 months and 24 months of age as part of their regular wellness visits. Children ages 36 to 72 months who are Medicaid members and have not previously been screened for lead are required to have a blood lead test.
A child who has been exposed to lead may not have obvious symptoms. Testing can identify exposure so healthcare providers can recommend appropriate follow-up and care.
Take steps to prevent lead exposure
Families can take simple steps to reduce potential lead exposure:
- Wash children’s hands, toys, bottles and pacifiers regularly.
- Wet-mop floors and wipe windowsills and other surfaces regularly to reduce dust.
- Remove shoes before entering the home.
- Use Lead-Safe Certified contractors when renovating or repairing older homes.
- If work or hobbies involve lead, change clothes and shower before going home and wash work clothes separately.
- Provide children with a nutritious diet that includes foods rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C.
Parents and caregivers can learn more about lead exposure, prevention, testing and testing older homes for lead at hhs.nd.gov/health/lead or by calling HHS at 701-328-2378, 711 (TTY).